Diversity is at the heart of what it means to be an artist.
Artists possess a powerful tool to evoke social change. Without uttering a single word, they can enlighten, educate and affect change around the world. Embracing Our Differences invites you to participate in creating a society where diversity is embraced and individuality is celebrated.
Become a part of this change by submitting your original art to Embracing Our Differences and its annual international outdoor juried art exhibit.
About the Exhibit
Featuring 50 billboard-size images measuring 16 feet (4.88m) wide by 12.5 feet (3.81m) high, each work of art is created by local, national and international artists reflecting their interpretation of our theme "enriching lives through diversity and inclusion."
The 2023 exhibit will be on display mid-January through late May, 2023 in three locations throughout Sarasota and Manatee counties in Florida. Since 2004, the exhibit has hosted over 4 million visitors, in addition to 448,460 students via our education programs, for a very unique opportunity to experience the importance of diversity and inclusion in our lives.
To view past winning selections, please visit our Galleries
Who may enter?
Artists, professionals, amateurs, students – everyone can participate. National and international submissions are encouraged. There is no submission or entry fee and there is no limit on the number of submissions.
There is no restriction on entering art which has been submitted to previous competitions.
Are there cash awards?
A total of $6,000 (US) will be presented in the form of three separate awards - $2,000 each for “Best-in-Show Adult;” “Best-in-Show Student;” and “People’s Choice.” The “People’s Choice” award will be determined by visitors to the exhibit. (In honor of our 20th Anniversary, this year's awards are doubled from $1,000 to $2,000 each!!)
What is the theme of the competition?
Final selections will be chosen based on artistic excellence and originality in the reflection of our theme, “enriching lives through diversity and inclusion.” This may include, by way of suggestion only, any one or more of the following: appearance; racial differences; physical or mental impairment; language, religious or cultural differences; socioeconomic status; sexual orientation or identity; gender identity, positive attitude; inclusiveness; acceptance; taunting, bullying and confrontation; human rights and equality; understanding and kindness; empowerment; Holocaust awareness or any other topic which you believe furthers our theme of “enriching lives through diversity and inclusion.” Do not feel limited by these suggestions. We strongly encourage new and fresh interpretations of our theme.